Brewster Applauds Direction of Proposed Budget, Investment in Schools, Workforce, No New Taxes

Wolf proposed his budget during an address before a joint session of the General Assembly today in Harrisburg.

Brewster said the proposed budget includes $200 million more for basic education, an additional $50 million for special education and, for higher education, a 1.5 percent increase for state system schools. He said the plan also includes $50 million for early childhood education.

The governor’s proposal also focuses on improvements in career training and job development. The plan calls for $4 million to increase grants to the Manufacturing to Career Training program and another $6 million for adult career and technical training programs to better focus skill development and enhance career readiness.

Brewster’s statement follows:

“The governor’s plan includes sensible and reasonable programs and initiatives without increasing taxes. The focus on education and workforce development is welcomed as is the additional funding for job creation.

“I applaud the governor’s call to increase the minimum wage because not only does it help families immediately, it saves the state taxpayer dollars in the long run. The governor also renews his commitment to efficiency and effectiveness in delivering state government services and focuses on programs and initiatives that will generate returns.

“On taxes, the governor has called, once again, to close the Delaware Loophole and lower the corporate net income tax. This is fair and practicable and will deliver long-term benefits for the state’s economy.”